Former Cleveland Indians OF Grady Sizemore Signs With Philadelphia

Grady Sizemore’s comeback story isn’t over quite yet.

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May 26, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Boston Red Sox left fielder Grady Sizemore (38) reacts with teammate David Ross (3) after scoring against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Less than a week after the former Indians outfielder was designated for assignment by the Boston Red Sox, Sizemore signed a minor-league contract with the Philadelphia Phillies on June 24. CBSSports.com’s Jon Heyman reports Sizemore’s contract contains a July opt-out clause. The exact date for the opt-out clause is unknown at this time, but MLB Daily Dish’s Chris Cotillo reports he can opt-out prior to the All-Star break.

Sizemore posted a .216/.228/.324 slashline in 52 games (185 ABs) for Boston this year, his first year back in professional baseball after missing all of 2012 with injuries (along with most of the 2010 and 2011 seasons). Grady hit 10 doubles, two triples and two home runs, and if Sizemore doesn’t make it back with the Phillies, his last hit will come against Cleveland. Sizemore will report to the Phillies’s AAA team:  

Clearly, despite Philadelphia being in last place and having an aging roster, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. isn’t ready to try to rebuild, and hopes Grady Sizemore can provide some part-time pop to a team only six games behind the division-leading Washington Nationals.